St. Cloud Toyota Looking To Expand Into Former Dunham’s Space

WAITE PARK -- There may soon be new life in the former Dunham's space.

St. Cloud Toyota is looking at expanding the dealership into the former sporting goods store.

Waite Park Community Development Director Jon Noerenberg says they were approached about renovating the space about a month ago.

"Having been successful in their current space they were looking for a way they could maximize their area. When Dunham's closed it seemed to present an opportunity for them."

The intent would be for St. Cloud Toyota to use the facility for additional sale space, service area and make it an extension of their current location, which sits adjacent to the site.

Noerenberg says it's nice to see some of the vacant buildings not sit empty for too long and find new life.

"We've been fortunate to fill some of those larger stores that have closed and it's really difficult to get someone who has a long term stability. I think St. Cloud Toyota will benefit from the space and the city would benefit from having a long time tenant in that building."

A public hearing for a Conditional Use Permit for the property will be held during Tuesday's Planning Commission Meeting. If approved the item could be brought before the city council at next week's meeting.

Noerenberg says the building is privately owned and separate from the other businesses in the strip mall. Dunham's closed back in January.